Well the snow has melted and summer is here... some folks may be lucky enough to still be getting turns, still others may be lucky enough to have a trip booked to some exotic summer snowboarding destination, but for the rest of us it is the end for half a year. Somberly, we put our boards to rest knowing only hot unpleasantness awaits.
One question many people have is about ways to properly store their snowboard. While uncommon, improper storage over long periods of time can make your board virtually un-rideable. Not to fear! Here are a few things you can do to keep your snowboard fresh, lively and ready-to-go the second you get the call that the season is on again.
Temperature
Pretty much common sense, try to keep your snowboard away from places that get extremely hot or humid. Under your bed is an awesome, out of the way place where you can be sure the board is in a comfortable temperature. If you for some reason have no other choice and have to store your board somewhere toasty, make sure it isn't directly in the sunlight.
Preparation
These are simply tips, you don't necessarily need to be religious about preparing your board for storage. One thing I recommend is at least waxing your board. Before you wax your board, it's helpful to either remove or loosen your bindings to keep the inserts from pulling through as the base is heated... put them aside, it's better to store your board without the pressure of the binding screws. In waxing your board, remember that you are not going to scrape! Leave a nice layer on to seal the pores and keep the base lubricated and protected.
If you live in a particularly moist/humid area or your only storage option is such a location, your steel edges will have the potential to rust over a period of time. Spray some sort of oil, like WD-40, on a napkin and give your edges a good wipe. That will keep them fresh and rust-free.
Storage Position
There is a debate as to whether you should store a board flat or standing. I'm not sure on the details, but I'm assuming the folks for storing upright are about maintaining board camber and flex, while the folks for storing flat are about protecting the base/edges. For a well made board, I can't see this being a factor. As long the board is in a safe spot and not in a position to shift (and slam into something, denting/splitting an edge), I say you are good to go.
Hopefully, you won't even need these tips. Hopefully you find a way to use your snowboard this summer either in far-off lands, right next door at Mt. Hood Oregon, or maybe even get your hands on some snow-flex and make your own dry slope. Whether you get to experience any of those or not, now you know how to keep your board spiffy during the downtime in between.
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